What course/training are you doing and how long does it take?
I work in the propagation department at James Coles & Sons (Nurseries) and I’m in my second year of my level 3 crop technician apprenticeship at Pershore College.
Why did you get into horticulture?
I came into the industry because I consider myself to be environmentally conscious, doing what I can to decrease my carbon footprint. I didn’t know a lot about taking care of plants before, but I knew I loved being hands-on in my work and wanted to throw myself into the deep end.
How have you found it so far?
Thanks to my apprenticeship I have learned much more about the work I do and my passion has grown so much. I truly couldn’t recommend the course enough to anyone interested in going into the industry. It has opened up some incredible opportunities for me. To get a detailed understanding of how to properly maintain our crops and supply our customers with high-quality products, as well as learning about the business, it could not have come easier with this apprenticeship.
What advice would you give others considering this training/course?
If you’re interested in getting into horticulture, it can be a bit of hard work when the weather doesn’t cooperate, but if you’re lucky enough to live near a plant nursery, I’d heavily advise to go visit some of them and ask as many questions as possible! I’ve come to find my job incredibly rewarding knowing I can make a positive contribution to the environment, and that I’ve played a vital role in brightening up green spaces around the UK.’
